In the 12-year period of 2005 through 2016, canines killed 392 Americans. Pit bulls contributed to 65% (254) of these deaths. Combined, pit bulls and rottweilers contributed to 76% of the total recorded deaths. | More »

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Keep Them in Zoos?Navajo County, AZ - After a woman was attacked by three American bulldogs, he sister Betty Lee wrote to the White Mountain Independent. Lee was appalled by the injuries the animals inflicted and concerned that laws do not regulate dangerous dog breeds. Lee even suggests such breeds be kept in a zoo.

Dear Editor

By Betty Lee, White Mountain IndependentJune 2008

I was appalled to get a phone call from my sister yesterday, June 23rd, to let me know she had just been attacked by three American bull dogs that escaped from a hole in the business yard of Mountain Mattress Company where they were kept.I wish to God Navajo County would take the same responsible action in this case that three of your fine citizens did in saving my sister and her dog. Her miniature schnauzer was badly mauled, 50% percent of its flesh torn loose from its body and with teeth punctures in its body. My sister was knocked down and bit on her arm before she was rescued by these fine men.Don't you think its about time your county did something about keeping these dangerous animals locked away in a safe secure area from the general public, a zoo maybe? Lions and tigers cannot be kept in a fenced yard with a hole in it next to a busy sidewalk, or does that matter to your county?

In 2007, American bulldogs -- also a member of the pit bull family -- killed 3 people, 2 in the same attack. Of the latter attack, one victim was not recognized as a victim for sometime. Officials refer to a "heap" in the road as they uncovered the gruesome remains of the first victim. Later, the "heap" was determined to be yet another human victim minus two-thirds soft tissue.